Incoming Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick (D) says he will make a decision whether to legalize Class III gaming and/or slot machines early next year.

Patrick wants to meet with gaming supporters like the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe and the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. Both tribes have hired lobbyists to push for legalized gaming.

The Aquinnah Wampanoag are based on Martha's Vineyard but don't want to open a casino there. The Mashpee Wampanoag, whose recognition will be finalized in March 2007, are based on Cape Cod but plan to look elsewhere for gaming sites.

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Casino groups lobby Patrick (The New Bedford Standard-Times 12/4)